Seventeen-year-old Deborah Selenia Vasuilakeba is making strides as a leader, aiming to create a positive change in her school and community. Hailing from Namata Village in Tailevu and with maternal ties to Nasavu Village in Deuba, she holds the position of Associated Student Body (ASB) president at Everett High School in Everett, Washington, USA.
With a student population of 1,606 spanning Grades 9 to 12, Deborah’s leadership as a Fijian student has become a point of pride for her family. While her parents reside in Fiji, she is currently under the guardianship of her aunt, Selenia, and uncle, Aseri Kunawave, in the United States.
Deborah shared her motivation for running for ASB president, saying, “I was encouraged to do so by many students and teachers.” She was surprised to discover the impact she had on her school when she received news of her victory on February 29. “Winning with the biggest number of votes brought me so much joy and nervousness, but I realized that the Lord has a plan for me in this life,” she stated. Although she was born in the U.S., she takes pride in her Fijian heritage and identifies strongly as a daughter of Tailevu.
On September 4, Deborah was officially elected president of the student body at Everett High School, a school she has attended since Year 9 in 2021.
In Fiji, her mother, Ana Gasaucalayawa, described Deborah as a cheerful and confident child. “She never wanted to see any child sad or cry. She was known as a peacemaker in her school, wanting all children around her to love each other and be united.” Additionally, Deborah has demonstrated her talents as a beautiful singer, performing the American National Anthem at various school events and even during a City Baseball Game.
Recently, Deborah and her fellow student body officials participated in a leadership camp organized by the school district in Mt Adams. The camp, which required participants to disconnect from their phones and gadgets, included nearly 500 students from various schools who were trained to fulfill their student body roles. She described the experience as transformative, highlighting the connections she made and the personal growth she experienced during the six days without service.
Deborah was also recognized as one of the three Rotary Club of Everett’s Student of the Month for October. The club celebrates outstanding high school students in Everett each month during the school year for their achievements and potential. A teacher praised her leadership, saying, “Deborah leads with love. Her kindness and positive energy draw people to her.” Her ASB advisor noted, “Deborah is the only ASB President in over 15 years whose peers cheer and clap when she’s introduced. Her peers feel grateful to know her.”
When asked what advice she would give to young people, Deborah emphasized the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive individuals. “Know that there are people who will support you and those who may not. Lean on your supporters in moments of need, and also lean on the Father! Pray and ask for joy each day, and you will notice a difference.”